1987 Silver American Eagle – BU

A Symbol of American Resilience

In the twilight of the Cold War, as the world teetered on the brink of change, the United States Mint unveiled a coin that would become an enduring symbol of American values and artistry. The 1987 Silver American Eagle emerged as a beacon of hope and stability in uncertain times, its gleaming surface a canvas for some of the nation's most beloved iconography.

This wasn't just another coin; it was a testament to America's resilience and optimism. As the Berlin Wall still stood and global tensions simmered, the Silver Eagle soared above, carrying with it the weight of history and the promise of a brighter future. Its design, rooted in the early 20th century, spoke to a nation's enduring spirit, bridging past and present in a single ounce of pure silver.

The obverse of the 1987 Silver American Eagle features Adolph A. Weinman's iconic "Walking Liberty" design, first introduced on the half-dollar in 1916. This powerful image of Lady Liberty striding confidently towards the dawn, draped in the American flag, was a deliberate choice. It harkened back to a time when America had emerged as a global power, offering a comforting continuity in an era of rapid change.

On the reverse, the majestic bald eagle, rendered by John Mercanti, stands proud and vigilant. This wasn't just any eagle, but a carefully crafted emblem of national strength. With its wings spread wide, clutching an olive branch and arrows, it embodied the dual nature of American foreign policy: peace through strength. The thirteen stars above its head, representing the original colonies, reminded viewers of the nation's revolutionary origins and its continued commitment to unity and freedom.

For numismatists and investors alike, the 1987 Silver American Eagle represented more than just its silver content. It was a tangible piece of American history, a collector's item that doubled as a hedge against economic uncertainty. As the second year of issue for the series, it held a special place in many collections, marking the moment when the Silver Eagle program truly took flight.

In a world increasingly dominated by digital transactions and intangible assets, the 1987 Silver American Eagle offered something refreshingly real. It was a coin you could hold in your hand, feeling the weight of its silver and the depth of its artistry. For those who acquired it, it wasn't just a purchase; it was an investment in American craftsmanship and an enduring belief in the values that had shaped a nation.

Artistry in Silver

The obverse of the 1987 Silver American Eagle showcases Adolph A. Weinman's breathtaking "Walking Liberty" design. Lady Liberty strides purposefully towards the rising sun, her right hand extended in a gesture of hope and invitation. Her left arm cradles branches of laurel and oak, symbols of civil and military glory. The folds of the American flag billow around her, creating a sense of movement and vitality. The word "LIBERTY" arches above her, while "IN GOD WE TRUST" and the year "1987" complete the composition.

On the reverse, John Mercanti's heraldic eagle design commands attention. The eagle, with its wings spread wide, holds an olive branch and arrows in its talons, echoing the Great Seal of the United States. A shield with thirteen vertical stripes adorns its breast, symbolizing the original states' strength and unity. Above the eagle's head, thirteen stars form a triangle, representing the nation's ascent to glory. The inscriptions "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA," "1 OZ. FINE SILVER," and "ONE DOLLAR" encircle the design, affirming the coin's origin and value.

Product Highlights

• Metal Type: SILVER – Hedge
• Purity: 0.999
• Weight: 1 oz
• Grade: BU – Brilliant Uncirculated
• Manufacturer: United States Mint
• Mint Mark: W – West Point (Not Shown)
• IRA Eligible: Yes
• Obverse: Walking Liberty design by Adolph A. Weinman
• Reverse: Heraldic eagle design by John Mercanti

A Precious Investment

The 1987 Silver American Eagle stands as a compelling investment opportunity for both seasoned collectors and newcomers to precious metals. Its 99.9% pure silver content provides a tangible hedge against economic volatility, while its status as legal tender in the United States ensures its liquidity and acceptability.

As a second-year issue, this coin holds particular appeal for completist collectors seeking to build comprehensive Silver Eagle sets. Its brilliant uncirculated condition preserves the mint's original luster, making it a prized addition to any numismatic collection. The timeless appeal of its classic design, coupled with its historical significance, contributes to its potential for long-term appreciation.

Moreover, the coin's IRA eligibility offers investors a unique opportunity to diversify their retirement portfolios with a physical asset backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government. In an era of economic uncertainty, the 1987 Silver American Eagle represents not just a wise investment, but a piece of American history you can hold in your hand—a tangible connection to the values and artistry that have defined a nation for generations.